As is tradition on September 8, thousands of Cubans paid homage to Our Lady of Charity, revered as the Patroness of Cuba in the Catholic Church. People from various provinces of Cuba and other countries flocked to El Cobre, a town in Santiago de Cuba, to participate in the procession dedicated to this Marian devotion.
The news portal CubaNet shared a video on Facebook this Sunday, showcasing the massive congregation that walked through the streets of El Cobre, trailing behind the image of Our Lady of Charity. Declared the Patroness of Cuba on May 10, 1916, by Pope Benedict XV, this holy image inspires a grand celebration every year.
The Archdiocese of Santiago de Cuba also shared various moments of the traditional pilgrimage on Facebook. This pilgrimage takes place every September 7, starting from the provincial capital and ending in El Cobre.
"After a joyful and heartfelt pilgrimage, the young people who set out from Santiago de Cuba to the Sanctuary of the Mother, as an expression of faith, entrusted her with all their hopes and personal desires, which they carried with great devotion in their hearts," the publication stated. "We trust that this journey, this pilgrimage, will continue to resonate in the history of our nation and our faith," the Archdiocese of Santiago de Cuba added in their statement.
Rescuer Aris Arias Batalla, a representative of the Red Cross in the eastern province, shared various moments of the pilgrimage held on the eve of the Day of Our Lady of Charity on Facebook.
However, the schedule of activities to celebrate Our Lady of Charity began to be noticeable in Santiago de Cuba several days ago with a conga that accompanied the faithful to the sanctuary in El Cobre. The festive conga accompanied the pilgrims from the town's central park to the Sanctuary, blending traditional Cuban music with religious devotion.
The jubilee dedicated to the Patroness of Cuba extends beyond the borders of Santiago de Cuba. Dozens of Cubans joined the procession of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre this Saturday, which passed through the streets of El Vedado, in the Plaza de la Revolución municipality in Havana. The route, which began at the Parish of San Juan de Letrán at 19th and J Streets, extended to the Church of the Sacred Heart at Linea and D Streets.
Last August, Cubans residing in Miami participated in a procession of the Virgin of the Ermita de la Caridad through various points in the county.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Devotion to Our Lady of Charity
Below are some common questions and answers regarding the annual celebration and devotion to Our Lady of Charity in Cuba.
Who is Our Lady of Charity?
Our Lady of Charity, also known as the Virgin of El Cobre, is a title of the Blessed Virgin Mary revered as the Patroness of Cuba.
When is the feast day of Our Lady of Charity?
The feast day of Our Lady of Charity is celebrated on September 8 every year.
Where do the main celebrations for Our Lady of Charity take place?
The main celebrations take place in El Cobre, Santiago de Cuba, but events are also held in other locations, including Havana and Miami.
What is the significance of the conga in the celebrations?
The conga combines traditional Cuban music with religious devotion, accompanying pilgrims on their journey to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Charity in El Cobre.